A showcase of innovative technology used at CSBP and Kleenheat, which form part of Wesfarmers Chemicals, Energy & Fertilisers (WesCEF), ignited the curiosity of 32 students on a recent site tour. Demonstrations of drones, virtual reality and robots highlighted WesCEF’s commitment to innovation and encouragement for the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

As part of the Kwinana Industries Council’s (KIC) iMEN project, year 10 students from 15 local high schools visited CSBP on 10 May 2016 where they learnt about the variety of careers available at WesCEF, how the company uses innovative technology throughout its business and the critical role capability in science and maths plays in industry.

In addition to a guided tour around the operations at the CSBP site, the young men were treated to a demonstration on how robots, drones and virtual reality are used and how augmented reality can be applied in an industrial setting. They also explored the role that STEM plays in everyday life and how studying maths and science in year 11 and 12 can boost their future career opportunities.

WesCEF has committed to encourage the study of science and maths in both primary and secondary schools in order to increase the competitiveness and future prosperity of Australia and reduce the gender pay gap for women. If the enthusiasm of the students for the technology on show was any indicator, then the future looks very bright for STEM!

CSBP and Kleenheat are both members of the KIC and have supported the KIC’s iProjects since 2013. iMEN follows the success of iWomen earlier this year and WesCEF is currently planning its participation in iSCIENCE scheduled for later in 2016.